barriers to access of health services, breast feeding, health risk behaviors, integral healthcare practice, social determinants of health, Medicine, Medicine (General), R5-920

Introduction: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is essential for infant health; although the WHO recommends it for the first 6 months of life, global adherence remains low. Despite various interventions in Colombia, its average duration is not as expected. More research is needed on the determinants of EBF in Colombia and globally. Objectives: To identify factors determining compliance with or abandonment of EBF worldwide, and to ascertain the existence of similar factors in Colombia. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in PubMed following the PRISMA protocol, including studies in English and Spanish, with mothers aged 14-50 years and children aged 0-24 months. Results: 35 articles were included: 10 systematic reviews and meta-analyses, 9 cohort studies, 13 cross-sectional studies, 2 randomized controlled trials, and 1 mixed study, covering 21 countries and identifying 58 variables associated with successful EBF or its abandonment. Discussion: Multiple social, cultural, economic, and personal factors influencing EBF can be risky or protective depending on the population. In Colombia, associations with some of the most frequently described factors are found. Factors and variables not included in previous reviews are proposed for further analysis. Conclusions: Relevant variables for EBF in Colombia and worldwide were identified. The fundamental role of health professionals in promoting EBF was highlighted, as well as the need for effective practice in the population.